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Human BodySurprise 4/5Difficulty 3/5Reviewed on September 14, 2026

Goosebumps are a useful reflex for modern humans.

Why it is true

Goosebumps are a vestigial reflex inherited from our hairy ancestors. When they were cold, the hairs stood up to retain heat, when they were frightened, the hairs stood up to appear larger. Today, it only gives us goosebumps.

Source: NIH

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